Angelee Contreras
Fierce, Fearless, Fashionable
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Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your background?
Angelee Contreras: First generation Latina on both sides, I lost my dad to drug addiction at 18 while away for college. To put myself through college, I worked several jobs. At the age of 16, I started working in retail and always had an immense love for fashion. Climbing the retail ladder, I realized there wasn’t much representation of women like me and my background in the field. I opened my boutique, Privy, in October of 2017 and coined the term “Unapologetic” to represent who our “woman” is. We have a brick-and-mortar location and are online.
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What inspired you to become a fashion boutique owner?
Angelee Contreras: Working in retail for 16 years prior to opening my own boutique, I realized there weren’t many options catering to me and my sense of fashion. Additionally, there was a lack of Latina representation in the field. This realization inspired me to become a fashion boutique owner.
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What do you think sets your fashion boutique apart from others in the industry?
Angelee Contreras: Customer service is key, and it's definitely what sets us apart from the rest. We prioritize providing excellent customer service, and we also offer private styling services. Notably, we take pride in being the first Latina-owned and operated boutique in our demographic.
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How do you stay up-todate with the latest fashion trends and incorporate them into your work?
Angelee Contreras: I stay up-to-date with the latest fashion trends through daily inspiration, whether it's online, in magazines, or at networking events. I'm always asking myself how we can translate these trends to the northeast, and then I curate them into our work!
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What has been your biggest challenge as a woman in the fashion industry, and how have you overcome it?
Angelee Contreras: My biggest challenge as a woman in the fashion industry was not coming from a financially literate family and lacking the necessary tools in the beginning. To overcome these challenges, I have taken numerous courses and sought mentorships to acquire the knowledge and skills needed for success.
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Can you share a memorable experience or project that you have worked on in your career so far?
Angelee Contreras: Some memorable experiences and projects in my career include being voted as one of the top three boutiques within our first four months of opening. Additionally, I've been involved in initiatives such as clothing several high school girls to combat bullying during back-to-school events. Moreover, I have partnered with various organizations for fashion shows and fundraising efforts, contributing to the community and showcasing the impact of our work.
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What advice would you give to aspiring women who want to start their own fashion business or pursue a career in fashion design/styling?
Angelee Contreras: My advice to aspiring women looking to start their own fashion business or pursue a career in fashion design/styling is to ask yourself why you want to embark on this journey. Understanding your motivation and passion will guide your path. Additionally, I encourage you to create your own lane in the industry—be unique and authentic to yourself. Most importantly, go for it and embrace the opportunities that come your way.
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How do you see the future of the fashion industry evolving, and how are you adapting to those changes in your work?
Angelee Contreras: I see the future of the fashion industry evolving with a resurgence of brick-andmortar stores. To adapt to these changes, I am ensuring that my store remains fully stocked and vibrant, embracing the return of physical retail spaces.
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What does being an empowering boss mean to you, and how do you strive to embody that in your everyday life and interactions with others?
Angelee Contreras: Being an empowering boss, to me, means recognizing the impact I have on others, especially as a woman with two little girls. I believe that every move I make, as well as the actions of other women, has the power to empower and influence the next generation. I live by the mantra that one woman at a time, we can change the world. I strive to embody empowerment in my everyday life by fostering a sense of unity and collaboration, understanding that we are better together.
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What do you believe is the most important quality for a successful fashion entrepreneur?
Angelee Contreras: Passion is, without a doubt, the most important quality for a successful fashion entrepreneur. It's the driving force behind creativity, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of one's vision. In the dynamic and competitive world of fashion, having a genuine passion for the industry fuels the determination to overcome challenges, stay committed to the craft, and deliver exceptional work that resonates with others. Passion not only sustains the individual through the ups and downs but also radiates through the work, making it authentic and impactful.
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How do you stay motivated and inspired, even in the face of adversity?
Angelee Contreras: In the face of adversity, I stay motivated and inspired by constantly reminding myself of the reasons why I embarked on this journey. I revisit the initial passion and drive that fueled my decision to enter the fashion industry. When faced with challenges, I make a conscious effort to rekindle that spark within me.
One of the ways I rejuvenate my inspiration is through reading. I find solace and empowerment in books, especially those that align with my goals and aspirations. Whether it's a motivational book or one related to my industry, diving into new literature helps me gain fresh perspectives and reinforces my commitment to my path.
By focusing on my initial passion and seeking inspiration from various sources, I navigate adversity with resilience and a renewed sense of purpose.
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What changes or advancements do you hope to see for women in your industry in the next 5-10 years?
Angelee Contreras: In the next 5-10 years, I hope to see more collaboration among women in the fashion industry. I believe that fostering a spirit of unity and partnership will lead to collective growth and empowerment. By working together, sharing insights, and supporting one another, women in the industry can break down barriers and create a more inclusive and dynamic environment. I envision a future where collaboration becomes a driving force for positive change, opening up new opportunities and elevating the influence of women in fashion.
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How have you continued to empower and inspire other women in your industry or community?
Angelee Contreras: I continue to empower and inspire other women in my industry and community by inviting them into our space to co-host events. Whether the events are big or small, I make a conscious effort to show up for them and support their initiatives. By creating opportunities for collaboration and shared success, I aim to foster a sense of unity and empowerment among women in the industry. Through these actions, I hope to inspire a supportive community where we can all thrive and uplift each other.
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Lastly, what message would you like to share with the Empowering Boss Life community and its readers?
Angelee Contreras: Find your why, do what makes you happy, and be completely unapologetic while doing so! Embrace your uniqueness, and let your passion guide you on your journey. Remember that you have the power to make a positive impact, not only in your life but also in the lives of others. Trust in your abilities, stay true to your vision, and surround yourself with a community that uplifts and supports you. Together, we can create a world where empowered individuals inspire and uplift one another to achieve greatness.